Run or walk your way to a PR at a race near Richmond

Get out on the roads and enjoy the fall weather at these races around the Richmond Region

Runners take off at the starting line of the Richmond Marathon.

The Richmond Marathon is known as the “World’s Friendliest Marathon.”

Photo by @juliennetripp.photo

Richmond may be home to the “World’s Friendliest Marathon,” but the local running scene has events year-round. Here are a few local picks for races coming this fall.

September

Heart of Virginia Festival 5K and 10K | Saturday, Sept. 14
This early-autumn race along Farmville’s High Bridge State Park Trail also has hand cycle divisions for both distances.

Run Richmond 16.19 | Saturday, Sept. 21
For the third year in a row, you can run or walk through 400 years of Black history in Richmond. Take your pick between 16.19K or 6.19K distances.

October

RIC route 5 capital trail

The Cap Trail 10 Miler offers a scenic course along the Virginia Capital Trail

Photo by RICtoday

High Bridge Half Marathon and 5K | Saturday, Oct. 5
Run through Civil War battlefields, through downtown Farmville, and over the iconic High Bridge while enjoying the flat out-and-back course.

Ashland Harvest Run/Walk | Saturday, Oct. 19
Assemble a team or fly solo when you take on this 5K or 10K event — both courses are USATF certified.

Cap Trail 10M and 5K | Saturday, Oct. 26
Take in the fall foliage and let cool temps power you to a personal best along the Virginia Capital Trail. There’s also a costume contest — prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed kids, adults, and groups.

November

Richmond Marathon, Half Marathon, and 8K | Saturday, Nov. 16
Whether you’re tackling 4.97, 13.1, or 26.2 miles, the environment at this local day at the races is unmatched.

Richmond Turkey Trot 5K | Thursday, Nov. 28
This Thanksgiving Day event begins at Dogwood Dell and runs around Byrd Park. Bonus: You won’t have to wait until turkey time to refuel — Rise Donuts will be waiting at the finish line.

Turkey Trot 10K by RRRC | Thursday, Nov. 28
If you’re trying to knock out a little more mileage on Thanksgiving morning, a turkey day 10K will take over Bryan Park. Pro tip: Make sure to bring canned food donations for Feed More.

Ready to get training? Hit the road with our guide to scenic routes.

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